I realize we've just debated tuning pin tightners, but I would really appreciate a little more input. Our instructor in school was adamant that "that stuff does more harm than good." As a result, I've always either used oversize pins, CA glue, epoxy, even abraisive backed wood fiber tuning pin shims (sand paper), but never "that stuff." I seem to be stuck with a 6'1" Ivers & Pond that is in excellent condition and sounds very nice (for an Ivers & Pond), however, the tuning pins are uniformly loose. It will hold a reasonable tune for about 3 months, then it lets go. The trichords become truly that - triad chords. The pins feel good, they turn smothly in the block, there does not appear to be any evidence of delamination or cracking - It almost appears as if the holes were not drilled enough undersize when they were originally driven, or perhaps the bit was dull and the holes were charred. If the instrument were of more value, I would change the block, but around here, an Ivers & Pond sells for about the same as two dead dry-cell batteries. Is CA glue treatment the first thing to try? Should I ingnore my college instructor, use "that stuff" and feel guilty about it for the rest of my life? Perhaps I just need to suck it up and spend a day driving #4 tuning pins. All thoughts will be greatly appreciated. Danny Moore Houston Chapter
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